Reading Dineshbhai’s letter “One whole edition of AV” took me Down Memory Lane. AV is fortunate to have talented, regular, loyal contributors. This is not by chance but due to CB’s encouragement, appreciation and AV’s popularity at highest level.
When I was depressed due to hospital negligence that ruined my life, forced me to retire as accountant, I took up writing as therapy. I am the original contributor when AV was part of GS. Besides letters, I have written articles, short stories, poems, interviews and regular travel briefs under “Arm-Chair Travellers” column. I stopped counting when I crossed 1500 mark, stopped saving copies of AV after ten years except special issues, rest on computer.
My success even surprised me; as I went on to write two novels, “Ivory Tower” and “Olive Grove” over 1000 large pages. I have my own column “From Far and Near” in a popular magazine.
I am indeed in debt to CB whom I know from back home, to throw me lifeline in my hour of need. Perhaps I may be the only armature contributor whose short autobiography published in AV. (Mind over Matter AV 12/08/2000)
I support Dineshbhai’s suggestion that we should be presented with “Certificate of Merit” signed by Av editor CB after crossing 500 mark! It would be “Badge of Honour” proud possession for our declining years.
Bhupendra M. Gandhi
By email
